Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Feb 23, 1888

Average_duration

:

3:14

Hugo Wolf's 'Der Jäger (Mörike Lieder)' is a song cycle composed in 1888, based on poems by Eduard Mörike. The cycle consists of six songs, each of which tells a story of a hunter and his experiences in the forest. The premiere of the cycle was in 1891, with the composer himself at the piano. The first song, 'Der Jäger', sets the tone for the cycle with its lively and energetic melody. The hunter is portrayed as a fearless and skilled tracker, who is always ready for the next challenge. The second song, 'Das verlassene Mägdlein', is a melancholic ballad about a young girl who has been abandoned by her lover. The music is slow and mournful, with a haunting melody that captures the girl's sadness and despair. The third song, 'Auf ein altes Bild', is a nostalgic reflection on the past. The hunter comes across an old painting of a woman he once loved, and the music is filled with longing and regret. The fourth song, 'Wo find ich Trost', is a prayer for comfort and solace in times of trouble. The music is slow and contemplative, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The fifth song, 'Nimmersatte Liebe', is a playful and ironic take on love. The hunter is pursued by a woman who is never satisfied, and the music is full of twists and turns, reflecting the unpredictable nature of love. The final song, 'Anakreons Grab', is a tribute to the ancient Greek poet Anacreon. The music is light and airy, with a sense of joy and celebration. Overall, 'Der Jäger (Mörike Lieder)' is a masterful example of Hugo Wolf's skill as a composer. The cycle is filled with a range of emotions, from joy and celebration to sadness and despair. The music is rich and complex, with intricate melodies and harmonies that capture the essence of each poem. It is a timeless work that continues to captivate audiences today.

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